If your skin feels dry, looks tired, or you simply feel like it could use a bit more protection, squalane might be exactly what you have been looking for. In the world of skincare ingredients, squalane has a great reputation, and honestly, it deserves it. It is incredibly versatile and effective.
You will most often see it as a pure oil (it absorbs very easily and does not leave a greasy film), one ingredient in blended facial oils, or part of a serum or a cream.
Sometimes, it is also used as an alternative to silicones, because it gives products a smooth ‘slip’ and a comfortable application.
What type of ingredient is Squalane?
Squalane is a softening, smoothing, and hydrating ingredient. Hydrating helps protect water from evaporating out of your skin, basically helping your skin hold onto moisture.
What are the main benefits?
Squalane helps to:
- protect and soften the skin,
- improve skin elasticity,
- support cell regeneration,
- reduce signs of premature ageing,
- calm inflammation and redness,
- support the health of the outer skin layer,
- provide antioxidant benefits.
Which skin types is it best for?
Squalane works well for all skin types, but dry and dehydrated skin tends to benefit the most.
How often can you use squalane?
You can use it daily, morning and/or evening. That said, it depends a little on your skin type and the form you are using (100% squalane vs. a product that contains squalane).
What can you combine it with?
Squalane plays nicely with pretty much everything. You can combine it with all active ingredients. It is also considered a great support ingredient when you are using stronger actives (like retinoids), because it helps keep the skin more comfortable.
Where does squalane come from?
For cosmetic use, squalane is almost always derived from plant sources like olives, wheat germ, rice bran, or amaranth. It starts as squalene, which is then processed in a lab into squalane. This step makes it much more stable and resistant to oxygen and other external factors.
In the past, squalene was sourced from shark liver. Thankfully, that is no longer the standard in modern skincare.
Does squalane clog pores?
No. Squalane itself does not clog pores.
Squalene is naturally found in human skin, meaning it is something your skin produces on its own to protect itself and maintain hydration.
One thing to keep in mind, though, if you are using blended oils or products with squalane, they may also include other oils or ingredients that can clog pores. Oils that may be more pore-clogging for some people include almond oil, avocado oil, sesame oil, coconut oil, palm oil, and neem oil.
How to use squalane — and where it fits in your routine
You can use squalane as an oil, as part of a serum, or as part of a cream (for example, in an eye serum). If you are using pure squalane oil, apply it after cleansing and toning, either on its own or as your final step after your serum/booster/ampoule.
One useful exception
If your skin is more sensitive and you are using retinoids, it sometimes helps to apply squalane before a retinoid serum. The reason is simple. It creates a light protective layer and can make the retinoid feel gentler.
Do you still need a moisturiser?
If you are using 100% squalane oil or an oil blend where it is the main base, you often do not need an additional moisturiser, because the oil already provides strong protective support.
If squalane is only a small percentage in a serum, you will probably still want a moisturiser afterwards. And if squalane is part of your cream, then that cream goes on as your last step.
Quick recap: What is worth remembering about squalane
Squalane:
- acts like a natural barrier that helps prevent water loss so your skin stays comfortably hydrated,
- supports and strengthens the skin,
- has soothing benefits,
- does not clog pores,
- suits all skin types,
- and can be combined with all active ingredients.
